MICHAEL Woods is facing a long road back to recovery after a season-ending injury.

The Hartlepool United midfielder, who has been very impressive in recent weeks and a regular under Ronnie Moore, went over in the second half and suffered a dislocated ankle and fractured fibula.

He signalled immediately for treatment after he went down following a fair and firm tackle from Wimbledon’s Dave Whinfield.

He was stretchered off to a rousing ovation – led by Wimbledon’s Ade Akinfenwe – and the break in play meant there was an additional 12 minutes added on at the end.

Coming a week after losing Scott Fenwick with an ankle injury for a month and Matthew Bates with a severe dead leg for six weeks, Moore said: “Losing Woodsy is a massive blow and I think he’s enjoyed me being here – he’s been treated well, but you can also kick him up the backside.

“He could be a future captain here, he’s that way. Not mouthy, but has a presence on the pitch and has a yap if they aren’t going right.’’

Woods’ absence means Nicky Featherstone will start tomorrow at Dagenham and he impressed in the latter stages on Saturday.

“Nicky did well when he came on, he’s a good player and is probably a bit frustrated he’s not played, but the standard of Woods and Tish mean he’s had to wait,’’ said Moore.

“It’s been difficult to get a game, he will get a chance now and it’s down to him. He’s a solid professional and could have had his bottom lip out and now he’s an opportunity to play.’’

Saturday was the final loan appearance of centre-half David Mirfin. He looks set to extend his stay from Scunthorpe until the end of the season and Moore said: “Mirf wants to stay, I see no reason why it won’t go through, he’s been steady and helps the back four.’’